Ch. 341..350

Chapter 341

Chapter 341 Everything Is Fine

With that in mind, Gabriel glanced at Curtis and uttered sheepishly, “Mr. Faymon, women are temperamental. If you were to console her, I’m sure she’ll come back…”

“Gabriel,” Curtis voiced before shooting Gabriel a solemn glance. “You’ve been working for me for long enough to know me well. Also, I think you’ve been too chatty recently.”

Gabriel lowered his head guiltily straightaway because he knew he had overstepped a boundary. “I’m sorry, Mr. Faymon. I’ve crossed the line.”

When Gabriel was walking out, Curtis added coldly, “Have the HR department delete all of Rayna’s information. No matter where she goes in the future, Faymon Group will have nothing to do with her.”

“Yes, Mr. Faymon.”

Gabriel’s face fell after he exited the CEO’s office. Why did Ms. Garland suddenly want to break up with Mr. Faymon? Besides, she did it so cruelly. I’ve been working for Mr. Faymon for so many years now, so I know his personality. He had never expressed his emotions to anyone other than Ms. Garland.

Indeed, he noticed the changes in Curtis ever since Rayna came into Curtis’ life. His mood had improved by the day, and he was even smiling more. Moreover, Gabriel had also noticed a slight hint of tenderness in Curtis’ eyes.

Back when Gabriel had to go to Jetroina for some work, he witnessed their relationship first-hand. When Ms. Garland was injured, it was the first time I saw Mr. Faymon forcing someone into a corner. Heck, Mr. Faymon has never been fond of joining in the fun, yet he ended up singing a song for Ms. Garland on stage that was witnessed by almost a thousand people. If that isn’t love, what is?

“When Mr. Faymon went back home for a while before coming back to the office that day, he had been cold and indifferent ever since. Why is that?” Gabriel mumbled to himself. Something crucial must’ve happened that day when he returned to the Faymon residence.

“Mr. Tylinski.” A secretary dashed toward him and said, “A woman with the surname Garland is here to see Mr. Faymon. She’s now in the lobby downstairs. However, she didn’t make an appointment beforehand. What should we do?”

Gabriel trembled all over, and he asked hurriedly, “Is Ms. Garland back?”

“Oh, no.” The secretary shook her head and answered in bafflement, “Although the woman’s surname is Garland, she’s not Ms. Garland. This woman is quite old. I don’t know why is she here, but she has a lunch box in her hand.”

“Okay. I’ll go over.” Gabriel assumed it was Linda, so he quickly got into the elevator and went downstairs.

When he arrived in the lobby, Gabriel glanced around and saw a flustered middle-aged woman with a lunch box in her hand. Sure enough, it was Rayna’s mother, Linda.

Gabriel went up to her immediately and asked, “What brought you here, Ms. Linda?”

“I have nothing going on today, so I thought I would swing by.” Linda heaved a sigh of relief when she saw him.

She then gave the lunch box and two bottles of wine to Gabriel. “This is chicken stew, and it’s for Mr. Faymon. Belle told me how much you like wine, so these bottles are for you. That’s all the wine I have at the moment because the latest batch isn’t ready yet. I hope you don’t mind.”

“No! Why would I mind?” Gabriel smiled and accepted the lunch box and the wine. “I’m so touched by the fact that you still remember me and you’re giving me stuff. Let’s go. I’ll bring you upstairs.”

“That’s not necessary. I came to look for you.” Linda waved dismissively before stammering, “Do you know what happened to Curtis and Belle? D-Did they break up?”

Gabriel jumped in alarm, but he tried his hardest to maintain the smile on his face. “Why would you think so?”

Linda heaved a sigh and answered, “One week ago, Belle called me and told me she would be abroad for a while. She then hung up before I could question further. I called her back a few times, but I never managed to get through to her. However, I noticed the difference in her mood when she was on the phone with me. Did she have a fight with Curtis?”

“There’s no such thing!” Gabriel answered in a serious tone. “Things are great between Mr. Faymon and Ms. Garland! Ms. Garland had only gone abroad for work. You’re overthinking.”

“Is that so?”

Gabriel nodded and flashed a smile. “Ms. Linda, I’m with Mr. Faymon every day. If something were to happen between them, don’t you think I would know? Don’t worry, okay? They’re fine.”

“In that case, I’m relieved.” Before she left, Linda remembered something, and she asked Gabriel if he knew any embroiderers.

Gabriel thought Linda wanted to start a side business, so he introduced her to the embroidery companies Faymon Group was associated with. After that, he sent her out of Faymon Group personally.

Gabriel couldn’t help but sigh while looking at the lunch box in his hand and recalling how cold the CEO’s office was. Besides, Curtis was being extremely aloof. Now that Mr. Faymon and Ms. Garland are no longer dating, what should I do with this chicken stew? Should I or should I not send it to Mr. Faymon?

Meanwhile, Rayna knew her relationship with Curtis had ended along with the phone call. However, she had no other choice. I owe Jefferson too much, and I can’t keep seeing bad things happening to him.

With that in mind, she recomposed herself and forgot all about that matter.

Ever since arriving in Frosa, Jefferson’s condition had improved. He was no longer coughing up blood as often as before. Hence, Rayna was feeling a lot better.

Rayna took the map Jessica gave to her and was ready to look for Jeremy’s laboratory.

Jefferson said he would accompany her, but she insisted on doing it on her own.

The weather in Yorksland was rather cold, and it was always raining. The temperature was only four to five degrees above the freezing point during the daytime. Fearing that the cold and wet weather could worsen Jefferson’s condition, Rayna told him to rest in the hotel.

The laboratories on the map were scattered all around Yorksland. In order to travel more conveniently, Rayna went to the car rental company to rent a car and followed the route on the map.

She would then drive throughout the day. Although she managed to find all the secluded laboratories, she couldn’t locate Jeremy’s.

Rayna knew Jeremy served for Hawen before, so he was bound to be well known. She thought the other researchers would definitely know him. Hence, she asked some of the researchers if they knew

where Jeremy’s laboratory was.

Those researchers told her they all knew each other. Furthermore, the laboratories would even exchange their data. However, they couldn’t reveal the location. They told her that she had to find the laboratory on her own.

With that, Rayna had no choice but to do as she was told.

Time went by quickly as she searched for the laboratory on the road every day.

Another day passed, and she still couldn’t find Jeremy’s laboratory. When she arrived at the hotel in exhaustion one evening, she noticed the festive stickers in the lobby.

Apparently, it was Chanaea’s festive season.

When the elevator was taking Rayna up to her floor, she couldn’t help but rub her forehead in frustration. Jefferson and I have been in Frosa for half a month now, but I still haven’t found anything.

Once, when she grew really desperate and wanted to call Jeremy to ask for the location of his laboratory. However, she decided against doing that at the very last second. Even if Jeremy were to agree to help, that would mean I have to owe Curtis a favor. Besides, Curtis already said although he wouldn’t harm Jefferson, he wasn’t going to save Jefferson. Unfortunately, Jefferson is running out of time.

 

Chapter 342

Chapter 342 The Same Scarf

The thought of the silly man who took everything upon himself tightened Rayna’s throat.

Soon, the elevator reached her floor.

As she was walking toward her room, she haphazardly wiped her cheeks dry. She only entered the room after she concealed her emotions.

The moment she stepped into the room, she caught a whiff of the aroma of food.

She thought Jefferson had ordered dinner, but when she arrived in the dining area, she saw a whole table of delicious dishes and a slender figure busying away in the open kitchen.

Did he cook these dishes? Rayna was stunned for a while by the familiar smell of food. “Jefferson?” she voiced.

“You’re back!” Jefferson turned around to glance at her before continuing what he was doing. “It’s Christmas Eve in Chanaea today. Don’t you guys have a traditional dinner on this day? I thought you would be sick of the food served by the hotel, so I asked them to send me some ingredients so that I can do some cooking. I hope you’ll find the dishes tasty.”

Rayna was on the verge of crying, but she feigned nonchalance and answered, “I didn’t know you can cook! Wow! Everything smells so nice, so they must be delicious. I can’t wait to taste them!”

With that, she picked up a fork and tasted the braised eggplant. When she saw Jefferson coming out with a pot of soup, she gave him a thumbs-up and praised, “This tastes so good! You’re as impressive as a professional chef!”

Seeing how much she liked the food, Jefferson flashed a smile and served her a bowl of soup. “Have some soup first, okay?”

“Sure!”

It was a bowl of creamy mushroom soup. The mushroom was so fresh that she could smell the mushrooms.

Rayna took two sips of the soup and froze. This isn’t the first time I’m drinking this soup. The taste is so familiar! I think I’ve had this before.

Rayna looked at the bowl of soup, and she suddenly remembered that she had something identical when she went to a restaurant in a hotel in Jetroina. She then couldn’t help but look at Jefferson and asked, “Where did you learn how to cook?”

“I learned from a chef working at my family’s manor a few years ago. What’s the matter? Does it taste bad?” Jefferson asked.

Rayna shook her head in response. She seemed to have figured something out when she pursed her lips and asked, “When I went to Jetroina back then, the soup I had was very similar to this one. D-Did you make the soup back then?”

“Yes. That was me,” Jefferson admitted. However, he didn’t think it was a big deal. “I like to cook. When I saw you guys going to the restaurant for breakfast, I went to look for the chefs in the kitchen and asked if I could cook.”

Still holding the bowl of soup in her hands, Rayna’s tears streamed down her cheeks uncontrollably. At that time, I was still wondering who the chef was because the soup was that delicious. Now I know it was him! He has never left me. Instead, he has been following me discreetly.

When Jefferson saw her cry, he immediately rushed toward her and wiped the tears off of her cheeks with his fingers. In an anxious tone, he asked, “What’s the matter? Why are you crying? Is the food bad?”

Rayna cried even harder when she heard that. “Jefferson, please don’t treat me so nicely. Y-You ought to think for yourself,” she stammered. I owe him too much! How am I ever going to repay him?

Upon hearing that, Jefferson breathed a sigh of relief.

With a smile on his face, he consoled, “You’re out every day trying to save my life. Since I can’t help you with that, I can only cook for you. It’s only right that I treat you well. If you like the soup so much, I’ll make it for you every day.”

“No! I don’t want that!” Rayna shook her head violently. “I want you to live a long life and have your own life. I’m such a dumb person. I don’t deserve your love.”

Jefferson wiped the tears off of her face and uttered a gentle tone, “You can’t measure it that way. All that matters to me is that I can make you happy. I am contented with that.”

He didn’t mind her foolishness at all. In fact, it would be even easier for him to keep her by his side.

Rayna held back her tears and warned, “You must live a long life so that I can repay you. I don’t like to owe favors. Do you hear me?”

“I hear you.” Jefferson laughed. With his gentle gaze, he said, “In that case, I must make sure you owe me a lot more favors. That way, you can stay by my side for the rest of your life to repay me.”

“Do you want me to still owe you favors when I’m in my seventies?”

“Yes. Why not?”

“You’re too much, Jefferson! You are heartless!”

“What do you mean? In fact, I’m very decent,” Jefferson answered in a serious manner.

Rayna couldn’t help but laugh after bickering with him. Consequently, her mood improved.

She then rolled her eyes at him and drank the soup happily. “I’m done with you! I’m going to drink my soup now!”

“Do you want some spaghetti? I will get it for you.”

“No. Spaghetti is high in calories. I’ll have the whole pot of soup!”

The dishes Jefferson made were so tasty, so Rayna ended up drinking the whole pot of soup and eating a whole plate of spaghetti. In the end, she was so full that she couldn’t even get up from the couch.

While rubbing her tummy, she pleaded, “Chef, please don’t ever cook again. Everything was so delicious! I couldn’t stop myself from eating. At this rate, I’m going to be as round as a ball very soon!”

Jefferson brought out a cup of coffee and sized her up. “You’re still so skinny. I bet you weigh less than ninety pounds. I think I’m going to need a long time to turn you into a ball.”

“You’re so evil and cunning!” Rayna glared at him.

After rubbing her tummy for a while, she got up from the couch and said, “You haven’t been out in such a long time. Would you like to go for a walk?”

“Am I allowed to go out?”

“Hey! You aren’t imprisoned, you know?” Rayna laughed. “Although it’s rather cold outside, it’s Christmas Eve. I would like to take a stroll with you. Let’s join the lively scene outside.”

Jefferson smiled brightly and answered, “Sure! I’ll get changed.”

“Wear a down jacket!” Rayna urged before going to her room to get changed as well.

The thick down jacket she wore was concealing her slim figure. Hence, she ended up looking slightly plump.

Soon, Jefferson came out after getting changed.

The down jacket he wore made him look even taller and more gentle. In fact, he exuded the aura of a rich heir.

Rayna glanced at him before taking a good look at herself. “I’m actually so slim! Why do I look like a granny after putting on the down jacket? On the other hand, you look even more handsome!” she grumbled.

Jefferson smiled gently and stared at her fixedly. “Nonsense. You’re still as beautiful as ever. To be honest, I don’t even feel like going out anymore. I don’t want anyone else to feast their eyes on you.”

Rayna blushed and let out a cough awkwardly. “Why aren’t you wearing a scarf? Your neck is going to feel cold.”

“Scarf?”

“Wait here. I’ll grab one for you!” Rayna didn’t mind walking around for a bit after such a heavy meal. Hence, she immediately went into Jefferson’s room to get a scarf for him before he could stop her.

Jefferson’s room was as big as hers, and it was squeaky clean.

Rayna didn’t see his suitcase in the room, and there weren’t any clothes lying around. She assumed he kept his clothes in the closet, so she went ahead to open his closet. All she saw were two coats and a few shirts in there. That’s all the clothes he has?

As Rayna was grumbling inwardly, she went through the clothes and saw a grey scarf tucked inside a black coat. She was baffled when she saw the scarf.

That scarf… Why does it look so familiar? She then reached out her hand to touch it and pull out the little tag inside the scarf. When she saw the tag, she couldn’t help but widen her eyes in disbelief.

Chapter 343

Chapter 343 Stop Being So Secretive

On Christmas Eve at Jetroina, Rayna and Curtis came across an accessories store while walking around the street. At that time, a scarf wrapped around the mannequin’s neck in the display window caught her eye, so she dragged Curtis into the store and bought it for him as a Christmas present.

And now she spotted the same grey scarf from that day in Jefferson’s room. Is it a coincidence?

At that moment, Jefferson came into the room as well.

Embarrassment flashed in his eyes when he saw the scarf in Rayna’s hand. “I’ve been searching high and low for a long time but to no avail. I didn’t expect you to find it right away.” His tone sounded unnatural.

“Yeah. It’s hanging in the coat.” In fact, anyone could sense his awkwardness as he was terrible at concealing it. Rayna felt upset and forced a smile on her face. “You’re so careless.”

As Rayna spoke, she stepped forward to get the scarf and wrapped it around Jefferson’s neck when he lowered his body.

His dark blue low-neck sweater could be seen as he had not zipped his down jacket. Moreover, his collarbones and the teardrop pendant were slightly visible when he lowered his body.

Rayna lowered her head and bit down hard on her lip, holding back her emotions. After the breakup, I’d already returned or dumped all the gifts he gave me when we were dating. However, he still wore and treasured the only present I gave him, which was the teardrop pendant until now. He’s such an idi*t! How pathetic is this? He is very possessive but has never forced me to do anything. Rather than telling me he wanted it, he secretly bought the same one by himself.

While burying her head in his chest, Rayna gloomily mumbled, “Jefferson, I hate you so much.” I hate you for your sacrifice and for keeping everything to yourself. I even despise you for still liking me.

The duo had been staying together in a suite for so long, but they lived in their respective rooms. Their only intimate interaction was Rayna snuggling in his embrace at that moment.

Since they were so close to each other, Jefferson could smell a faint, fragrant scent from her body, which was particularly alluring.

Jefferson reached out to keep her soft, tender body locked in his arms. As he took in the pleasant scent of her hair, he uttered, “Don’t hate me. You said you owe me favors and want to make up for all of them.”

No one knew what changes would occur as the future was far away. Despite that, it was the happiest moment of his life because the woman he loved was by his side, giving him all her attention and trying her best to save him.

Even if he couldn’t survive, he would still be satisfied because he got the things he had yearned for. Now, he could leave with no regrets.

After burrowing herself in his embrace for a while, Rayna felt that she was being melodramatic, so she quickly withdrew from his arms and helped him zip up his down jacket, bundling him up tightly.

Rayna then put on a smile. “Let me take you out for a walk tonight. You must tell me if you take a liking to something, and I’ll buy it for you, okay?” Just stop being so secretive. I’ll feel bad.

Jefferson nodded in response.

Perhaps many people were overseas for vacation recently, so they saw a lot of guests, including men and women of all ages and even couples cuddling against each other when they came out of the hotel.

Initially, Rayna didn’t care about it. Yet, when she unintentionally caught a glimpse of Jefferson’s gaze on a couple passing by before retracting his gaze and glancing at himself and her, she understood something.

Leaning over, she interlocked her fingers with his.

Even though they just came out from their room, which was pretty warm, and there was central heating in the lobby, Jefferson’s hand was slightly cold.

Rayna suppressed her distress before muttering, “It’s almost minus one degree outside, and it’s freezing. I can’t stand the freeze, so you must take care of me. Don’t let me catch a cold.”

Jefferson was stunned by her words, but he instantly held her hand tightly, wrapping her hand in his palm. “Okay.”

The duo celebrating the festive season without any friends or family in Frosa might appear dreary. In Chanaea, on the other hand, everyone celebrated the festival with excitement, and fireworks boomed in the sky from time to time.

The atmosphere was the liveliest at Linda’s new place.

Except for Rayna, James and Roxanne went back home. They even brought their partners along.

“Mommy, let me help you.” Although Kristie did not know how to cook, she insisted on entering the kitchen to help Linda wash the vegetables as she wanted to please the latter. She would do even the slightest thing to help just to leave a good impression on Linda.

Linda replied, “It’s rather smoky in the kitchen. You should just stay in the living room.”

“No worries, Mom. It’s a way to light up the festive mood!” Kristie obediently responded. She immediately took a plate and handed it over when she noticed Linda was about to finish cooking a dish.

“Kristie, by the way…” While peeling prawns, Roxanne turned around to look at Kristie. “You’re celebrating Christmas here, then how about Curtis?”

“I think Curt will return to the Faymon residence to accompany Old Mr. Faymon to have a meal, just like last year,” Kristie answered.

Since Kristie worked under Curtis during her teenage year, she had been celebrating New Year at the Faymon residence. If she happened to film in Norham and couldn’t return, she would spend the festive season with Theodore and the others.

Roxanne merely hummed in response.

She inched closer to Kristie and whispered, “I somehow feel something’s wrong. How could Curtis not worry about letting Rayna go on an overseas business trip alone?”

Instantly, Kristie nodded before she said softly, “I have the same thought as you! You have no idea how much Curt adores Rayna. There’s no way he’ll allow her to go abroad by herself, let alone during Christmas. Also, I realize Curt had an indifferent look when I went to Faymon Group to see him in the past few days. He even ignored me. I wanted to ask those staff where Rayna had gone for a business trip, but they kept their lips sealed.”

Roxanne’s eyes widened in surprise. “Did they break up, so Rayna went overseas to heal her broken heart?”

“I don’t think so since Curt and Rayna have a loving relationship.” Although Kristie said so, she was doubtful about that. “When I ask James, he claimed he rarely contacts Rayna.”

“His word can never be trusted!” Roxanne rolled her eyes. “Let me tell you. To him, Rayna is his top priority. Thus, he will do whatever she ordered.”

“They aren’t breaking up, are they?”

“I should be the one to ask you that question. Don’t you know the status of their relationship the best since you’re close to Mr. Faymon?”

Kristie pursed her red lips. “But Curt detests me now. Isn’t Cillian working with Curt? You should ask Cillian to test the waters and see if he could get any information from Curt.”

“Oh, right! That almost slipped my mind.”

Meanwhile, when Linda was about to serve the dish, she saw Roxanne and Kristie sitting together, seemingly whispering about something among themselves. “What are you two chatting about? Who’s breaking up with who?”

Upon hearing that, Kristie immediately got up and smiled obediently. “It’s no big deal, Mom. Roxanne and I are only gossiping. Let me take the food out.”

With that said, she took the dish from Linda before she scurried off.

Just as Kristie put the dish on the dining table, she noticed James wasn’t chatting with Cillian but was answering a call by the window. I wonder who he’s talking to on the phone. He looks a little exasperated.

She sneaked up on him as she wanted to eavesdrop on the phone call.

However, James seemed to find out about her action and only wished that person a Happy New Year before hanging up the phone. Kristie was caught off guard when he turned around and fell into his embrace.

Hence, Kristie simply snuggled in his embrace and refused to get up. While looking up at him, she asked, “Who did you talk to through the phone? Your tone sounded so gentle. Are you courting

someone else behind my back?”

The corners of James’ lips twitched when he heard her questions. “No. Don’t overthink.”

“Then tell me, who was it?”

Chapter 344

Chapter 344 Are You Not Tired Of It

“My roommate.”

Kristie stared at him incredulously. When she saw that his gaze was clear and he appeared to be telling the truth, she pouted. “If I ever discover you having a relationship with someone else, you’re dead!”

“Don’t be silly.” Patting her head, James tried to change the subject. “You should eat more. When I carried you yesterday, you felt lighter than before.”

In James’ opinion, women should not be overly thin, or they would suffer from the effects of anemia and whatnot. A well-developed, healthy body was certainly better.

“No! I can’t be on camera if I put on weight.” Kristie pouted, shaking a slender finger at him. “Men say that it’s not good to be too skinny, but when we put on weight, they will feel disgusted.”

“No, I won’t.”

“Hmph!” Kristie snorted. “You may not mind, but I do. I’m afraid that you’ll grow tired of me if I become fat and pursue other girls instead. At the end of the day, I’m also relying on my looks to make a living from my fans.”

James was at a loss for words.

“I think you should eat more,” Kristie murmured as she rubbed his chest. “You’re the one who needs the strength, not me.”

Instantly, he understood her double entendre. Arching an eyebrow, he lowered his head and stared at the impish grin on her face. “Such enthusiasm. Don’t you get tired of it?”

Kristie threatened, “The day I am no longer enthusiastic is the day I’m seeing someone else.”

James was rendered speechless.

What a titillating display.

The Christmas Eve dinner prepared was extremely lavish. Each and every dish Linda made was tailored to James’ taste.

The atmosphere was merry as everyone sat down to eat.

Linda glanced at James and Cillian, her children’s respective partners, with a content expression. She sighed wistfully. “I wonder how Rayna is doing overseas. That girl won’t even come home for Christmas.”

Since he was her potential son-in-law, Linda had wanted to invite Curtis over. However, after considering the fact that Curtis and Rayna were only dating and had not progressed so far, she dispelled the notion. Curtis would also have his own family gathering to attend, thus, she felt bad about inviting him over.

Serving Linda a plate, Roxanne said, “Mom, you worry too much. I’m sure Rayna can take good care of herself over there. Anyway, James and I both brought our partners home tonight!”

“She’s been gone for more than a month now, but she never calls.” Apart from the very first phone call, Rayna had not called home, causing Linda to worry about her.

A woman traveling overseas for work all by herself… Huh, Rayna is a kind girl. What if she’s being bullied over there?

Linda peered at Roxanne, a hint of dissatisfaction coloring her tone as she said, “Among you three siblings, Rayna is the most dependable, while James is the most obedient. You’re the most spoiled,

always making your sister worry about you.”

“Mom, I’m not spoiled!” Roxanne complained. Kristie is even more spoiled than I am! However, Roxanne chose to keep silent because of Kristie’s background. As she could not afford to incur their wrath, she could only bear her mother’s criticism silently.

“How are you not spoiled? Rayna offered to let you study abroad, but you refused her offer and chose to pursue a career in acting, wasting a lot of her money in the process. It’s a good thing she has a knack for business.”

Linda truly felt bad about it. She was a divorcee trying to take care of her three children, but the family’s financial burden had fallen on her oldest daughter’s shoulders instead. Rayna is such an outstanding daughter.

Tears began to roll down her face at the thought. Linda sobbed, “You should cherish your sister more. If it wasn’t for her support, you won’t be able to pursue your dreams. I have nothing and can do nothing for you all.”

“There, there. Why are you crying, Mom?” Roxanne hurried over to comfort her mother. “We know that our current lifestyle is all Rayna’s efforts. We will make sure to treat her well.”

James added, “Mom, you know me. I’ll always support Rayna in her endeavors. I’m incredibly grateful to you and Rayna.”

“It’s not good to cry on Christmas Eve,” Kristie chimed in. “Come, let’s toast to Rayna who isn’t here today.”

Linda wiped her tears. “What a shameful display. You’re right, I shouldn’t cry on such a joyous day.”

Everyone picked up their glasses and toasted.

Cillian poured a glass of wine and offered it to Linda.

Scratching his head, he said awkwardly, “Ms. Linda, I am but an uncultured man who can’t quite measure up to those handsome men who are good at earning money. However, I’m truly grateful that a pretty woman like Roxanne is willing to stay with me.”

Linda laughed in response. “Just because a man is handsome and good at earning money doesn’t mean he will cherish his partner. I’m quite pleased with you. Out of my three children, Roxanne is the fussiest. Please continue to take care of her.”

Cillian hurriedly said, “Oh no, she’s not fussy at all. I’d be happy as long as she’s satisfied with me.”

Halfway through the meal, Linda excused herself to go to her room.

She grabbed the gifts she had prepared in advance and presented them to Kristie and Cillian. “It’s just a trifle. I hope you’ll accept it and I wish you all a happy year ahead.”

Kristie promptly accepted the proffered gift. “Thank you, Mom!”

Unused to such customs, Cillian hesitated for a long moment before finally responding when Roxanne elbowed him. “Thank you, Ms. Linda. I wish you a Merry Christmas too.”

Kristie roared with laughter. “Cillian, you’re such a buffoon!”

A tiny smile crept over Linda’s lips.

Puzzled, Cillian scratched his head. When he noticed Roxanne’s livid expression, he asked cautiously, “Why are you all laughing at me? Did I say something wrong?”

“You dolt!” Roxanne smacked Cillian and scolded him in a low, furious voice, “Mom gave you the present because she considers you her son-in-law. What do you mean by Merry Christmas?”

Cillian was thrilled. “Really?”

He quickly turned around to look at Linda. “Thank you, Ms. Linda!”

Exasperated, Roxanne kicked him in the leg. “What do you mean by ‘Ms. Linda?’ Use your brain!”

Cillian immediately uttered loudly, “Thank you so much, Mom! Don’t worry, I will cherish Roxanne. Even if I have to starve to death, I will never let her go hungry.”

Roxanne was speechless.

This blockhead will be the death of me!

Roxanne and the others helped Linda wash the dishes and tidy up after the meal. When she had a moment of free time, Roxanne tugged Cillian aside.

Cillian, under the impression that Roxanne wanted him to help with the dishes, immediately rolled up his sleeves. “Leave it to me.”

“Wait just a minute. There’s something I need to ask you.” Roxanne grabbed him and asked in a low voice, “Did you notice anything amiss when you were with Curtis some time ago?”

“What do you mean?”

Moving closer, Roxanne whispered, “Curtis and Rayna were practically inseparable, yet she went overseas and stayed there over the holidays alone. Why didn’t he go with her? Also, Kristie said that he’s been ignoring her. Could it be that Rayna and Curtis had broken up?”

Yes, they had actually broken up.

Cillian only knew about the incident because James had told him. As for the reason for the breakup, he was left in the dark. The latter had made him promise not to tell the ladies especially Linda.

 

Chapter 345

Chapter 345 Her Old Flame

Cillian had no choice but to feign ignorance at her question. “Surely that’s not possible. Mr. Faymon and Rayna are on such good terms.”

His answer caused Roxanne to scrutinize him. “That’s not what I asked. You know something!”

Sh*t!

“I-I don’t know anything…” Cillian threw his hands up, muttering weakly, “I’m just a lowly bodyguard. I follow Mr. Faymon around daily, but I don’t go into his office.”

Roxanne caught the guilt that flashed across his face and was certain he knew something. “Cillian, you’re going home alone tonight.”

“Huh? I thought you wanted to watch the fireworks together…” Cillian was baffled.

“I don’t feel like going anymore!” Roxanne glared at him. “I’m going to stay here and celebrate Christmas with Mom tonight!”

Cillian finally understood that Roxanne was angry. He begged, “Please… I don’t want to spend Christmas alone.”

How miserable would that be?

Cillian was speechless when Roxanne pretended not to hear him.

He stole a glance at James. Sorry, James. I know I promised to keep it a secret, but Roxanne is more important to me.

Cillian brought Roxanne to a room and proceeded to lay bare everything he knew. He recounted the events from Rayna contacting him to how he defected to Rayna’s side and returned to Yeringham to spy on Curtis, including everything that happened between the couple.

It took only three minutes for him to unload what he knew, but Roxanne was stunned for a long time after listening to him.

Waving his hand in front of Roxanne’s face, Cillian asked, “Hey! Hello, are you okay? Why aren’t you saying anything?”

Roxanne sucked in a long breath and yelled, “Gosh! Why did they break up—”

“Shhh! Keep your voice down!” Cillian hurriedly covered her mouth. “The soundproofing is rather poor, so James will hear you!”

He had been afraid that Roxanne would overreact. Hence, he had brought her into the room.

It was a good call!

Pushing his hand away, Roxanne asked in astonishment, “Weren’t they on good terms? Why did they break up and why did Rayna go overseas?”

“I’m not sure. It seemed like she was searching for something.” Cillian shook his head. “Do you know Jefferson? Rayna could’ve broken up with Mr. Faymon because of him.”

“Jefferson Hamilton?” Roxanne stared at him with wide eyes.

Of course, I know him! If it wasn’t for his help, I would not have been able to become so successful. Moreover, he’s also Rayna’s former boyfriend.

Soon, Roxanne managed to calm herself. She murmured, “Could it be that Rayna and Jefferson rekindled the old flame, and that’s the reason she broke up with Curtis? But that doesn’t sound right…”

She had seen how much Rayna hated Jefferson, even going as far as to slap her when she brought up the latter’s name. That memory remained fresh in her mind.

So, why would they get back together?

Unable to make heads or tails out of her words, Cillian asked curiously, “What’s Rayna’s relationship with Jefferson?”

“Oh, he’s Rayna’s ex-boyfriend.”

“Huh?”

“Rayna met him when she was studying abroad, and he was her first love. Jefferson also helped me get into the entertainment industry.”

“What?”

“What are you blabbering about?” Roxanne smacked him on the head. “Shhh! You’re being too loud!”

Cillian rubbed his head, still reeling from the shock. “I thought it was strange… Rayna and Curtis were a perfect couple. So her old flame is the cause of their breakup…”

He pondered the information he had just learned. “Where’s Jefferson from?”

“Do you know about the Terblanc family from Yartran?”

Nodding, Cillian exclaimed, “He’s from the Terblanc family?”

“Yes. He’s also second in line for the inheritance.”

Cillian was rendered speechless.

Roxanne ignored the dumbfounded Cillian and rubbed her chin. “I don’t think it’s wise of her to do this… Jefferson may be rich, but their family has no reach in Aploth! I’d just signed a five-year contract with Excellent Entertainment Company. What if Curtis targets me because he’s pissed about their breakup?”

“I don’t think Mr. Faymon is such a petty man,” Cillian said.

“Hmph! Would you be angry if I’m taken away by another man?” she asked.

“Of course, I would!” Cillian’s reply was instant. He could not bear the mere thought of it. “If someone tries to take you away from me, I’ll blow his brains out!”

“That’s right.” Roxanne patted him on the shoulder. “Men are touchy when it comes to matters related to their women. There is no exception. “Dear Cillian, I will entrust Curtis to you. We need to help him get back together with Rayna. In my opinion, Curtis suits Rayna better than Jefferson after assessing their stats!”

“Uhh…” Cillian blurted, “Are you sure it isn’t because you’re afraid that Excellent Entertainment Company would drop you? If Jefferson were the shareholder of the company, I think you would be singing a different tune.”

“Hey, I’m not such a ruthless woman!” Roxanne tugged his ear. “Everything I earn is for the sake of our life together. Also, I want my sister to be happy!”

Pained at having his ear pulled, Cillian begged, “Okay, okay. Whatever you say.”

“Keep staying by Curtis’ side and spy on him.”

“That might not be possible.”

“Can’t you think of something?” Roxanne rolled her eyes. Suddenly, a thought occurred to her, and she shoved him aside as she rushed out of the room.

“Where are you going?” Cillian massaged his ear and hurried after her.

He found Roxanne inside Rayna’s room, grabbing a camera from the bookshelf. “Are we taking pictures later?” he asked.

“Shut up,” Roxanne scolded as she turned on the camera to check for something.

Cillian lumbered over curiously and saw a picture of Rayna flash across the screen for a brief moment before Roxanne turned the camera off.

She returned the camera to its bag and handed it to him. “Send this to Curtis and tell him Rayna sent this. Got it?”

“Mr. Faymon should be having dinner at the Faymon residence,” Cillian replied. I don’t really want to work on Christmas Eve. “I want to watch the fireworks with you and sleep at home tonight…”

Standing with her arms akimbo, Roxanne glared at him. “Take it to him and come pick me up after!”

“Now?”

“Yes, right now!”

“Okay, I’ll go,” Cillian muttered in an unhappy face.

Why do I have to go out in this weather on Christmas Eve? But if I don’t do as I’m told, the repercussions would be disastrous…

Curtis had been in a bad mood lately; thus, Cillian was afraid of incurring his ire. Hence, he decided to call Gabriel to smooth things over for him.

Just as Cillian exited the residential area, he was buffeted by a gust of cold wind, causing him to shiver uncontrollably. Gabriel did not sound pleased when he finally answered the call.

“Why are you calling me on Christmas Eve?”

 

Chapter 346

Chapter 346 Mom Asks Me To Send You Food

“Good evening, Gabriel!” Cillian chuckled. “Will you be having dinner with Mr. Faymon at the Faymon residence again this year?”

“No. Mr. Faymon sent me away.”

Cillian made an “ah” sound before he asked, “Then, are you coming home?”

“Mr. Faymon won’t let me accompany him, so I’ll be home. I’m taking a private plane so I’ll reach in about an hour. Wait, why are you asking me this? Are you worried about me?”

“We’re cousins. Of course, I’ll be worried about you!”

Gabriel sneered on the other end of the phone. “That’s enough. Do you think that I don’t know you well enough? Your parents are at my place. They were showing off that you found a wife and even asked why I didn’t have a partner yet.”

Cillian could feel Gabriel’s resentment through the phone. It seemed that Gabriel had been thoroughly lectured by the elders.

Ha, that’s expected. After all, Gabriel is already twenty-nine years old.

Cillian was laughing on the inside as he rubbed his nose and said, “Will you be back to Norwal City tomorrow morning? I have something for Mr. Faymon, but I don’t dare to send it to him.”

“What is it? Could it be something from Ms. Garland?”

“Um… Yes.”

“Send it yourself!” Gabriel’s expression changed, and he even kindly advised Cillian. “The words ‘Ms. Garland’ is like a ticking timebomb. You’re on your own.”

“No way,” Cillian exclaimed miserably.

He initially only wanted to pass the camera to Gabriel since he would land in Curtis’ hands anyway. Yet, Gabriel did not want to help him.

Gabriel heaved a heavy sigh. “If it weren’t because of work, I would’ve avoided Mr. Faymon. Oh, right. Last night, I sent Mr. Faymon to his home. It’s been a while since he’s gone to the Faymon residence so I’m guessing he’ll be staying at his place for Christmas Eve. You know where he lives, right? You can just go there.”

Cillian was rendered speechless.

“Gab, have you finished your call? It’s time to eat.” Suddenly, a woman’s gentle voice could be heard from the other end of the phone.

Cillian did not recognize the voice.

He was stunned for a moment before returning to his senses as he shouted, “Oh my gosh! Gabriel, who’s that? Aren’t you having Christmas Eve dinner?”

Gabriel mumbled, “It’s… a relative who’s back from overseas.”

“Are you trying to trick me?” Cillian teased. “I’ve met almost all our relatives. When did you have a ‘female relative’ returning from overseas that has such a nice voice?”

“Enough. You should hurry and send the thing!” Gabriel did not provide an answer and hung up the phone immediately.

Cillian chuckled.

The more Gabriel hides it, the more suspicious he is!

He sighed as he looked at the camera in his hands and mumbled to himself, “More importantly, I have to send this first.”

Since Gabriel had returned home, Cillian could only go to Curtis’ place by himself.

When he was about to leave, he suddenly thought of something. Today is Christmas Eve, and Mr. Faymon and Ms. Garland have broken up. If I sent over Ms. Garland’s things, won’t I be asking for a beating?

Cillian sat in the car as he hesitated. In the end, he shut off the engine and went back to Linda’s place.

Linda opened the door just in time.

Cillian noticed that Roxanne and Kristie were no longer in the living room, so he assumed they had gone to the bedroom. He told Linda, “It seems like Mr. Faymon isn’t returning to the Faymon residence for dinner because of work. Mom, please make him some food. I’ll bring it along when I go to meet him.”

“Are you going to send something to Curtis?”

Cillian rubbed the back of his neck and replied, “Yes. It’s something important. I must send it to him by tonight.”

“Hold on. I’ll go cook right now.”

Linda hurried into the kitchen to prepare some food. It looked as if she was afraid Curtis would not have anything to eat.

Cillian could not help but sigh. How great it is to have such a good mother-in-law!

Around an hour later, Linda finished cooking.

She had prepared carbonara and bacon spaghetti and mushroom soup. The thermal container was filled to the brim with food.

Linda looked like she had a lot of questions to ask Cillian but she stopped herself. She simply handed him the lunch box and said, “Tell Curtis to get more rest. Don’t just focus on work all the time.”

Cillian nodded. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll make sure to relay the message.”

He brought the food Linda made and confidently made his way to Curtis’ place. From afar, he noticed there was a black car parked there.

That’s weird. It doesn’t look like the car Mr. Faymon usually drives.

Cillian was confused and parked his car before heading toward the mansion. He passed by the car and looked inside. It looked like there was someone in the backseat. In the next second, they opened the door.

A woman wearing a camel-colored cloak got out. Her skin was pale and firm, and she did not look her age.

She hurried toward Cillian. She looked like a well-mannered woman and the way she talked was also gentle as she said, “May I know if you’re looking for Mr. Faymon?”

“That’s right. Is there anything I can help you with?” Cillian stared at her warily.

Sandy noticed the lunch box in Cillian’s hands and froze for a moment.

She then took out a vintage-looking lunch box from the car and gave it to him. She said, “Please give this to Mr. Faymon. He… He didn’t come back for dinner and everyone at home is worried.”

Cillian did not take the lunch box from her. Instead, he looked her up and down and replied, “You’re already here. Why don’t you give it to him yourself?”

He had been acquainted with Curtis for some time and met everyone from the Faymon family. However, he had never met this woman, and judging from how she spoke, her relationship with Curtis seemed close.

Could she be Curtis’ blind date?

The thought flashed through Cillian’s mind, but he soon figured that it was impossible.

The woman in front of him looked young, but the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes could be seen. She was obviously in her fifties. Even if Mr. Faymon and Ms. Garland break up, he won’t be that… desperate.

Upon hearing Cillian’s question, Sandy’s eyes darkened, and she desperately explained, “I don’t think he’ll want to see me. Please do me a favor and give it to him. It’s not good if he always starves himself.”

Cillian probed cautiously, “Are you close with Mr. Faymon?”

Sandy hesitated momentarily before she shook her head. “Not really.”

You’re not that close, yet why are you so worried about him?

Cillian could not comprehend her action and did not want to help her. However, Sandy’s words were sincere. It made him feel awkward, so he just took it from her and brought it along with him.

He walked up the small flight of stairs and was about to ring the doorbell when he noticed Sandy had gotten back into the car and driven off.

Who on earth is that woman?

As Cillian mulled over it, the door was opened by Curtis who wore dark gray casual clothes. The latter stood at the door and stared at him with a cold gaze and exuded a domineering aura.

“What is it?”

Cillian felt a chill run down his spine. He hurriedly plastered a smile on his face as he said, “Mr. Faymon, are you busy? My mom was afraid you might’ve been starving, so she made me send you some food.”

Curtis frowned. “Does your mom know who I am?”

“Oh, I said it wrongly. I meant my mother-in-law.” Cillian had gotten used to calling Linda “mother” and forgot to change her title back to “mother-in-law.” He said, “Mr. Faymon, you haven’t had dinner yet, right? How about I take them inside for you? These lunch boxes are quite heavy.”

“No need.” Curtis’ expression darkened and his tone was cold as he reached out to close the door.

Cillian quickly slotted his foot at the door to stop Curtis and tried playing the family card. “Mr. Faymon, though you and Ra— Ms. Garland have broken up, my mother-in-law is still very worried about you.”

“She heard you were busy and didn’t have time to eat, so she was in the kitchen cooking for hours. She made you some mushroom soup and pasta and made me bring them for you. She even wanted me to remind you to take breaks and rest instead of working all the time.

 

Chapter 347

Chapter 347 Hard To Please Others

Curtis’ gaze darkened. He remained silent and unmoving.

Cillian glanced at Curtis and mustered up the courage to continue, “Mr. Faymon, I don’t know why you and Ms. Garland broke up, but my mother-in-law still worries about you. Look, she even made you such a delicious meal. Besides, even if the two of you broke up, it’s not to the extent of becoming enemies, right?

“Why are you and Gabriel so similar? He’s been so talkative lately too!” Curtis glared at Cillian. His expression was still grim, but he opened the door to let Cillian in.

Cillian quickly brought the lunch boxes in.

“Woof!” A small but mighty-looking black German Shephard ran out from the living room. It barked at Cillian and gave him a scare.

“F*ck!” Cillian cursed. He looked toward Curtis with a ridiculous expression on his face. “M-Mr. Faymon, is this your German Shephard? I thought you hated—”

He remembered that Curtis hated long-haired animals.

Curtis interrupted his sentence, “No. Gabriel left it here and asked me to take care of it.”

“Huh? Gabriel…”

Cillian wanted to ask, “Isn’t Gabriel at home? Why is he asking you to take care of his dog?” However, he swallowed those questions and kept silent as he met Curtis’ cold gaze.

He brought the lunch boxes to the table and opened them thoughtfully. In an instant, the delicious aroma of pasta and mushroom soup wafted through the air.

Curtis’ expression darkened as he made his way over.

He pulled the chair on the opposite side of the table and sat down. He noticed another lunch box sitting at a side that was still closed and went to open it. “You could’ve just brought something simple over. Why did she make so much food?”

“My mother-in-law didn’t prepare that.” Cillian scratched his head, still confused about that woman and Curtis’ relationship. He said, “A woman gave it to me and made me bring it to you.”

“A woman?”

“That’s right. She’s very beautiful too.” Cillian recalled. “She has a nice figure and flawless skin, which makes her look like she’s in her twenties. She has a gentle voice and looks like someone from Jetroina.”

Curtis’ expression turned grim, and he forcefully closed the lunch box. His tone was ice cold as he remarked, “Take this away with you later and throw it in the bin!”

“Understood, Mr. Faymon,” Cillian answered curtly. Despite the curiosity flooding through him, he did not dare to ask Curtis about it as he proceeded to hand him the camera.

Curtis asked, “What’s this?”

“It’s a camera.” Cillian thought of Roxanne’s advice and contemplated for a moment before he said, “When we were eating, Ms. Garland called me and asked me to give this to you.”

“I don’t want it. Take it back!” Curtis yelled with a gloomy expression on his face. He thought of Rayna’s determination to return his gift and frowned.

She already returned all my gifts. Why do I have to receive her things?

Cillian knew Curtis would reject it, but he did not expect Curtis to reject it so quickly. He muttered, “Mr. Faymon, you could take a peek. Ms. Garland gave this to you…”

Curtis answered curtly, “I don’t want to.”

“My. Faymon…”

“Cillian, a qualified bodyguard should talk less.” Curtis glanced toward him. His cold gaze made Cillian shudder and dare not say another word.

When Cillian noticed that it was useless to push Curtis further, he hummed a reply and slumped his shoulders as he sighed inwardly.

He could already imagine Roxanne kicking him out of Linda’s house if he brought back the camera and relayed Curtis’ words.

D*mn. It’s so hard to please others!

Just as Cillian opened the door and was about to leave, Curtis called him from behind.

Cillian quickly looked back and noticed Curtis staring at the food on the table. He was confused about whether the latter had called him and probed cautiously, “Mr. Faymon, did you call me?”

Curtis picked up his fork and paused for a moment before he calmly said, “Bring the camera here.”

Cillian was stunned momentarily before he returned to his senses and happily walked over. He placed the camera on the table and said, “Mr. Faymon, take a look at it after you eat. I’ll leave first!”

Afraid that Curtis might change his mind and not want the camera again, Cillian hurried out the door.

Soon, the little bit of liveliness that was in the house was gone. It became cold and quiet once more.

Curtis had some mushroom soup. The soup was thick and fragrant, and it tasted like home. He could not help but think of Rayna cooking in the kitchen.

Rayna had learned how to cook from Linda, so the dishes they cooked were similar. The only difference was that Linda preferred to cook soups whereas Rayna liked to cook pasta.

He remembered when Rayna first moved in, she would come up with different pasta recipes every day for him such as bacon and carbonara fettuccine, meatball marinara spaghetti, aglio olio, and more.

She was adamant about making foods he did not like and purposely forced him to finish them.

As he thought of the past, a hint of a smile appeared on Curtis’ lips. However, it disappeared quickly and his expression turned grim once more as he frowned.

They had broken up, so it would only make him feel uncomfortable to think of the moments they spent together.

Lucky seemed to have been attracted by the delicious smell of the food and ran over before running around in circles at Curtis’ feet. Curtis shifted his leg aside but Lucky rubbed against him again.

Curtis glared at it in hopes of scaring it. “Eat your kibble.”

“Woof!” Lucky barked at him and its tail wagged around happily. It even jumped and placed its paws on his knees as it looked at him with a pleading look.

Curtis was rendered speechless.

However, he softened as he thought of how Rayna was smiling as she hugged Lucky and kissed it over and over again.

Curtis took a few pieces of bacon from the spaghetti and rinsed them in a bowl of clean water to remove the sauce before throwing them into Lucky’s food bowl. Lucky could not wait any longer and devoured it all.

It wagged its tail happily as it ate the bacon.

Curtis stared at Lucky and noticed his patience toward it had increased after spending some time with it. In fact, he had gotten used to it following him around when he got home.

But that person has already gone overseas with another man. Why am I still taking care of this dog? I should ask Gabriel to take it back when he’s free.

After finishing the food that Cillian brought, Curtis cleaned the dining table and headed toward the living room with Lucky trailing behind him.

Curtis shot a look at it and said coldly, “Follow me around all you want. In a few days, this won’t be your home anymore.”

“Woof!” Lucky barked.

Curtis was confused at his actions as he came back to his senses. I must be going crazy. Why am I talking to a dog? It only knows how to bark. It’s not like it’ll understand what I’m saying.

Lucky seemed interested in the camera inside a black velvet bag on the coffee table. It pawed at the coffee table and bit on the bag.

Curtis turned and hurried to catch the camera when he noticed that it was about to fall to the ground.

He glared at Lucky and it seemed to know that Curtis was angry as it lied on its stomach and stared up at him innocently.

At that moment, a question popped into Curtis’ mind. Since Rayna went abroad, what happened to her cat?

He soon brushed away that thought.

What do her cat’s life and death have anything to do with me?

Initially, he wanted to put the camera back on the table. However, he mulled over it and leaned back into the couch as he opened the black velvet bag and took out the camera.

He was not interested in photography so he did not how to operate the camera. He went online to check the camera’s model and followed the instructions to turn it on.

The camera’s gallery was empty with no photos except for a forty-six-minute-long video. Rayna was on the thumbnail and the background of it looked to be Linda’s new home.

Curtis hesitated momentarily before he clicked on the video.

 

Chapter 348

Chapter 348 Belated Vlog

The footage started off shakily. Subsequently, Rayna appeared in the shot. It seemed like she was placing the camera on the table. Then, she stepped backward and sat on the couch before the camera lens.

Taking in the thin, pink long-sleeved knitted dress on her, Curtis figured the video was recorded during the start of autumn. Rayna, slender and beautiful, blinked her clear, charming eyes.

The man fell into a daze, staring at her countenance.

It was then he realized love was indeed a complicated matter. They had broken up for so long, yet despite his effort to distract himself with work, he still could not help but be reminded of her at the sight of her face. He wondered about her life abroad and whether she had gained or lost weight. At the same time, he reminisced on the times when she was still by his side.

“Hi!” Rayna, in the video, waved her hand at the camera lens and started talking to herself. “I’m taping this vlog to record my current beauty in case I don’t look as pretty when I become old and wrinkly in the future.”

Facing the camera, she tidied her hair and smiled faintly with her lips pursed. “Of course, I also have plenty of things I’ve been keeping to myself that I wish to express with this opportunity. Hmm… I haven’t decided how to produce this video or if I should publicize it in the future.”

She deliberately paused for a brief moment before waving her hand in front of the camera lens again. “Even if no one sees this, I still wish to share the happy news. That’s right. I’m engaged!”

Then, she wrinkled her nose and mumbled, “However, this ring was given to us by another couple when we participated in an event because they didn’t want it. Alas. Mr. Faymon didn’t even propose to

me properly.”

At that point, Curtis could not help but chuckle.

If he had known she was so particular about details, he would have planned a romantic wedding proposal for her.

Unfortunately, they had broken up.

While regret and sorrow churned within him, Rayna, in the video, suddenly beamed at the camera with her eyes twinkling. “But it doesn’t matter. I’m delighted as long as I can be with Mr. Faymon. Mr. Faymon, if you stumble upon this video, I want to tell you that I really, really love you. Therefore, I don’t mind all your imperfections.”

Laughing, she threw her head backward before she added, “No, no. That’s not right. You’re just a little insensitive toward the minor details. Otherwise, you’re still relatively perfect and a great boyfriend.”

A beat later, she repeated that sentence firmly, “I’m speaking the truth. You are a super great boyfriend! Mr. Faymon, you are not only a great boyfriend but also a competent teacher.”

Facing the camera, she smiled gently. “I’ve learned a lot from you, and it was also you who taught me how to grow as a person. When I was little, I didn’t think much of love because of my parent’s divorce. In fact, I was even a little fearful about it. Even though I didn’t lack suitors when I was a student, I disregarded all of them and focused on my studies.”

Rayna lowered her head, seemingly recalling the past, as she spoke with an undertone. “At that time, my only aim was to earn as much money as possible to ease the burden on my mom. After that, I was accepted into Norham University’s Faculty of Translation. I met Jefferson on my first day at the faculty. We got on well, and he eventually asked me to be his girlfriend. I agreed without thinking twice. He was

my first love and also the person who made me realize that there are many different types of men in this world. Not every man would abandon his wife and children as my dad did.”

There, she paused briefly before continuing, “However, we did not date for long… I returned to the country in a hurry to escape the trauma he inflicted on me and casually married a man I found acceptable. At that time, I was still clueless about what love was like. I was simply yearning for a safe harbor.”

With a grin on her face, she remarked, “Mr. Faymon, I figure you’ll be outraged and jealous at this point. I suppose you’ll be wondering why I am recollecting my exes when I am about to marry you.”

While staring right into the lens, Rayna uttered with all seriousness, “This is because I finally understand the meaning of love after I got together with you, Mr. Faymon. One could recognize their love for another person almost instantaneously. That person could easily alter their mood, be it anger or joy. Because of the affection one harbors toward the person one loves, an apology would suffice to earn his or her forgiveness. I am very grateful for Jefferson because he exposed me to how it feels to like someone. But that wasn’t love. Instead, it was just pure fondness for another person. I’m also thankful to Julian. He kept me company during the toughest period of my life. I had thought of living that way for the rest of my life, but…”

Ultimately, she did not finish the rest of her sentence. Instead, she merely smiled at the camera and spoke in a mischievous tone. “Mr. Faymon, you should really express your gratitude to them. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have met with this refined version of me. I’m talking so much nonsense because I want to let you know how much I love you. I want you to understand my feelings. Mr. Faymon, I wish to spend the rest of my life with you. Is that something you’d be open to?”

Then, she cleared her throat and said solemnly, “I know you are very exceptional. Countless socialites will gladly offer themselves up to you without you having to lift a finger. Still, I think I’m not that bad myself. Aside from coming from a poor family, I’m still considerably smart, right? I’ve always told you I

want to learn more to accomplish something on my own. That’s the truth. I have to do that for your sake as well as my own. You’re an overachiever, so I don’t want others to say that I’m an eye candy, relying solely on my beauty to keep you by my side.”

After saying that, she stuck out her tongue and muttered, “Of course, I do realize that I’m not as pretty as Kristie. Still, I’m better looking than eighty percent of women. You’re not allowed to refute my statement if you see this video. Do you get it?”

Curtis’ heart gradually softened as he watched her talk to herself in front of the camera with various entertaining and quirky facial expressions. Even the pent-up rage that had been in his heart for over a month dissipated abruptly.

He touched the screen with his fingers, a tender look filling his gaze. A longing to caress her face washed over him. “I got it. You’re the prettiest of all.”

“Belle, what are you muttering about?” Linda’s voice sounded from the video.

Curtis noticed the footage shook. The next second, Rayna was gone. All he could hear were the sound of someone dragging their slippers across the floor and Rayna’s conversation with her mother.

Rayna seemed to have gone into the kitchen and clung to Linda, speaking in a piping voice. “Mom, didn’t you learn embroidery previously? Can you make me a traditional wedding attire?”

“Are you getting married to Mr. Faymon?”

“Engaged. We are merely engaged!” Rayna corrected Linda in slight embarrassment. “Still, our wedding will happen sooner or later. Mom, will you make one for me, please?”

The latter replied, “I can do it if I have the pattern and materials, but making a traditional wedding attire requires a lot of hard work. I’ll have to take at least three years to put together the outfit. Don’t you want

to get married in a wedding dress?”

“I don’t want to. I want to get married in the traditional wedding costume that you make.”

“You’re just a woman who’s getting remarried. Why do you have so many requests to make?” Linda disdained her daughter. “Curtis is such a highly eligible man. He could’ve been with any woman he liked. I wonder why he fell for you.”

“Are you even my biological mom? Besides, nothing happened between Julian and me after we registered our marriage!”

“That doesn’t change the fact that you’re stepping into your second marriage.”

“In that case, should I seek a son-in-law in his second marriage to suit your preference?”

Linda immediately uttered, “Can’t I compliment Curtis since he’s such an excellent bachelor? You can quit searching for another man because no one will be as remarkable as Curtis.”

“What about the traditional wedding costume—”

“I’ll look for the materials once I’m done with my work on hand. However, three years are too long. Curtis isn’t getting any younger, and you shouldn’t keep him waiting, either. I’ll see if there are any skilled embroiderers I can hire to assist me in embroidering the wedding costume. If there are a few people to work on the project together, we can complete the outfit in seven or eight months.”

 

Chapter 349

“You’re the best, Mom! I’ve always known you dote on me the most,” Rayna said in a piping voice..

Linda replied, “Save it. It’s not because I feel sorry for you. I’m only acquiescing in your request becaus e I’m worried you’ll drag me down and make me the brunt of gossip if no one wants to marry you since i t’ll be your second marriage. I don’t have the energy to make another dress for Roxanne.”

“Mom, could you stop harping about how it’s my second marriage-”

“It’s the truth.”

It seemed as though Rayna knew she would fail in winning the argument with Linda, considering that s he stopped talking and went about helping her mother with some housework. A long time passed befor e Curtis saw her appear on the screen again.

When Rayna noticed that the video was still recording, she gasped and turned beet red. “Oh my gosh! I completely forgot to stop recording. It didn’t capture my conversation with Mom just now, did it? No, th at won’t do. I’ll have to edit that bit lest Mr. Faymon see it.”

As she muttered under her breath, Linda happened to call her to have her meal. The video ended after she responded to her mother.

Curtis sat on the couch and stared at the camera silently for a long time.

The forty–minute– long video replayed in his mind again and again. The way Rayna had looked and her words stirred a fir e within him, and he felt angry and distressed.

If she loved me so much, why did she take Jefferson’s side without hesitation when a problem arose? Was it just because he had nothing and was the weaker one? What did I have, then?

The memory of that phone call in which she cried because of Jefferson and resolutely decided to remain in Frosa, abandoning him, made him seethe with hatred, and his gaze gradually turn ed icy.

Curtis tossed the camera carelessly onto the coffee table, then rose to his feet to go upstairs.

When Lucky saw him get up, it sprang to its feet and followed him while wagging its tail. Its owner mere ly glanced at it out of the corner of his eye and kept walking.

Just like that, the pair went upstairs together.

Curtis grabbed his robe and went to take a shower. When he came out of the bathroom, the sight of Lu cky lying quietly on the carpet had him furrowing his brows. He thought of chasing it out of the room, bu t after a moment’s hesitation, he merely stepped over it.

Since I’m sending it away anyway, I’ll let it lie wherever it wants and do a massive spring cleaning later.

After he dried his hair with a towel and was about to walk to the bed, he was stunned to spot the light gray scarf Rayna had given him during their t rip to Jetroina.

Didn’t I put it in the closet? How did it end up on the bed?

Curtis stared at the scarf, his gaze reflecting his mixed feelings. Picking it up, he found a dark blue Her mès silk scarf underneath it. The other scarf belonged to Rayna.

For a moment, he was at a loss for words.

Then, he turned to look toward the puppy lying on the carpet. It gazed at him with wide, innocent eyes and wagged its tail. The corners of his mouth twitched as he asked, “Are you testing my temper?”

Lucky barked at him twice, seemingly unafraid.

Ignoring it, Curtis threw both scarves onto the nightstand and started attending to some work matters. It was an hour later when he finally looked up from his phone..

He checked the time and saw that it was already after eleven o’clock at night. In ten minutes, it would be the start of a new year.

Even so, a new year won’t bring any changes.

Curtis prepared to go to bed. As he reached out to turn on the lamp on his nightstand, his hand brushed against the dark blue silk scarf. He hesitated for a moment but still held it in the end.

Rayna used to have many of her things at his place. After the breakup, she took away everything, leaving only him behind. It puzzled hi m as to where Lucky managed to get ahold of one of her silk scarves.

She always ties a silk scarf around her neck whenever she wears off–shoulder dresses or low– cut tops. Although she has porcelain skin, the dark– colored silk scarf wouldn’t age her. Instead, it only further enhances her beauty. When I happened to pa ss by the Department of Regulators or even during meetings, there were many times when I saw her ta lking with a fierce and dazzling aura while wearing this exact scarf. Once, it even served as a blindfold tied around my eyes. Despite not being able to see, I could feel the warmth of her skin bene ath my fingers and smell her faint fragrance. What brand was that perfume? Was it Bvlgari or Miu Miu?

As Curtis held the silk scarf up to his nose and breathed in the smell of her scent mixed with the fragran ce she wore, he could not help thinking that if he knew the perfume’s brand, he would acquire it and for ce it to cease production of that perfume. I’ll make it so that she can never buy it anymore so as to avoi d any chance of thinking of her whenever I smell that perfume.

The thoughts running through his mind made his heart ache, filling him with a sense of love and hatred at the same time.

The second he closed his eyes, he recalled how she would snuggle in his arms languidly. He did not kn ow where she picked it up, but she had a bad habit of playfully pressing on his Adam’s apple while looki ng utterly innocent.

Despite his resentment, he could not stop his heart from aching at the thought of her being all alone in the cold weather of Frosa. After trying to suppress his emotions for some time, he still reached for his phone.

The call went through quickly, and Jeremy’s voice rang out. “Curtis, I heard from Mr. Tylinski that you’re not going to the Faymon residence for New Year’s Eve dinner tonight. Do you want me and Wyatt to go over and ha ng out with you?”

After grunting a word of acknowledgment, Curtis replied, “There’s no need for that. I’ve already eaten. I’ m calling you about something else.”

“Is it regarding Ms. Garland?”

Curtis frowned upon hearing Jeremy’s spot– on guess. “Why would you think that? You haven’t seen me for some time, so how would you know wh at I’m thinking?”

“You’re always calm when you’re angry. You prefer having some time alone to gather yourself before co ntacting us. I asked Mr. Tylinski, and he said you’ve been very busy these few days. I knew you wanted to use your work to distract yourself from thinking about your family’s affairs and what happened with Ms. Garland,” Jeremy answered.

He continued after a brief pause, “Also, you may not have realized it, but Ms. Garland holds a special pl ace in your heart. She has been affecting your emotions, and a few of your emotional turmoils have be en because of her.”

His analysis silenced Curtis, who wondered whether things were as he had said.

2

Does Rayna really mean that much to me? Now that I think about it, I suppose it’s true. Otherwise, I wou

Curtis reached up and massaged his temples. After some time, he finally said, “Jefferson’s been poisoned. He’s in critical condition, and there’s no saying if he’ll even live for another year. Rayna took him to Frosa.”

Jeremy was somewhat agitated when he heard that. “Did she break up with you because of this?”

“Yes.”

“I’m guessing she only became soft–hearted toward Jefferson because she knows something,” Jeremy reasoned. “After all, Ms. Garland’s feelings for you are as clear day to us.”

“We promised to face any problems together.”

Jeremy questioned, “Well, have you stopped to consider her feelings? She knows about your relationship with Jefferson, so she must feel bad too. One is her ex– boyfriend, while the other is her fiancé. She’s not cold- blooded, so there’s no way she could bear to wat the way, I’m curious how your mother wound up at the Faymon residence.”

“I checked with my dad about it. He said he received an anonymous letter and contacted her via phone,

“Did you get Wyatt to look into it?”

Curtis narrowed his eyes as he responded coldly, “There’s no need to investigate. Arnaud was the one w to kill Jefferson.”

“How vicious of him,” Jeremy uttered. “There are many ways he could’ve used to get rid of Jefferson. W

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Chapter 350

Curtis sneered. “Jefferson gave up his right to become the head of the Terblanc family, making Arnaud t he only remaining heir. It’ll be a piece of cake for Arnaud to get to know the prominent figures in Aploth. He’s planning to enter Aploth’s market. That’s why he dared to lay a finger on me. Moreover-”

“He knows how much Jefferson cares about Ms. Garland and that you and Jefferson share a mother. H e wants to play with you two, so he did this,” Jeremy said, finishing his sentence for him.

Curtis rubbed the dark blue silk scarf between his fingers as grimness clouded his eyes. “He’ll have to get my permission to enter Aploth’s market.”

“I know little about running a business, so I’ll refrain from making any comments.” After a moment of co ntemplation, Jefferson said, “Do you think Jefferson knows about this? Arnaud’s such a ruthless charac ter. Would he be silent about this?”

Curtis hummed in rumination. “He probably doesn’t. If he did, he wouldn’t have gone to Frosa with Ray na. He would have gone back to Yartran to clarify things with his father.”

“Does Arnaud have some kind of plan by not telling him about it?”

“That’s enough. Stop talking about him,” Curtis snapped, his mood taking a dip.

That name was haunting him like a ghost recently. If not for his upbringing and self– restraint, he would have gone straight to Frosa by tracking down Rayna via the tracker in her ring and t hen shot Jefferson point blank.

Sensing the imminent eruption of the volcano named Curtis, Jeremy smartly stopped mentioning the na me and asked, “Curtis, why did you call me then?”

“I’ll send you the front desk number of the hotel she’s currently staying. Call her” After a pause, Curtis added in a resentful but resigned tone, “Send her the lo cation of the lab.”

Jeremy was silent for two seconds before saying, “I didn’t mishear you, did I? You’re… saving Jefferson ?”

“I just don’t want my soon–to– be wife to run off with another man,” Curtis snarled. “Making this call to you tonight is the most humiliati ng moment in my life.”

“It looks like Ms. Garland has changed much of you, Curtis, Jeremy remarked. “If this were in the past, you woul d have killed him without leaving any trace behind; you wouldn’t be someone anyone could reason with.”

At that, Curtis‘ tone deepened. “Jeremy, if you have too much time on your hand, why don’t you get so me investors for your lab? I’ve been investing more than a billion per year in your lab, but I’ve yet to se e any good results. I’m getting annoyed, and I don’t think I want to keep throwing money into the gutter. What do you think?”

“I’m not that free!” Jeremy blurted out. “For the sake of testing out RP3KK antineoplastic drug for the ph armaceutical factory under Faymon Group, I haven’t been sleeping for two weeks. I nearly died!”

“Are you done?”

“Okay, I’ll call Ms. Garland right now and try to find out how things are between her and Jefferson at the same time. Can’t let your wife run off with someone else, right?”

With that, Jeremy ended the call swiftly.

Curtis glared at his phone, so furious that he could not voice a single word for a while.

After recollecting himself, he kept away his phone and placed the blue silk scarf on the nightstand.

He sighed and muttered, “Just this one time, Rayna.”

I’ll only relent this one time. Once you’re done dealing with those matters, you have to come back.

Chanaea and Frosa had a time difference of seven hours, so it was currently seven in the morning at F rosa. As the weather was cold, the glass windows of the hotel were coated with a layer of mist, making the outside view foggy from the inside.

It had been a long while since Rayna arrived in Frosa. Once she adapted to the time difference, she be came an early riser. After washing up, she went to make breakfast while looking on her phone at the m ap that Jessica had given to her.

She had searched through all the labs on the map, but her search had been fruitless.

Nevertheless, Rayna was planning to make a trip to those labs again to find out whether or not there w ere other unmarked labs around them. The woman refused to believe that Jeremy’s lab could be invisib le to the human eye.

Right after she poured the hot oatmeal into a bowl and brought the bowl to the dining table outside, she heard the faint sound of a phone ringing.

It was from the landline in the living room.

At that discovery, she hurried over, picked up the call, and asked in Ferropenian, “Hello? Is something t he matter?”

“Good morning, Ms. Garland, the receptionist politely greeted. “You have a call from Chanaea, and the caller identifies himself as York. He would like to have a talk with you. Do you know him?”

York? Jeremy York?

Rayna fell into a daze but quickly snapped out of it and answered, “He’s my friend. Please forward his c all to

me.”

“Of course.”

Jeremy’s call was soon forwarded to Rayna. Before she could say anything, he voiced, “Ms. Garland, my lab is at Bekelon Street. Once you’re there, just tell them your name.”

Hearing that, Rayna checked the location on the map. It was a bustling street, and the lot number of th e lab. Jeremy gave her turned out to be a private mansion.

Most labs were located in the suburbs, but Jeremy’s lab was in the metropolitan area and in a mansion at that. There was no way she could have found his lab if not for his call.

“Thank you. I really need Ixora,” Rayna said in a quiet voice. After biting her lower lip, she added, “Did Mr. Faymon ask you to tell me about this?”

Jeremy chuckled and replied, “Ms. Garland, aren’t you being too much of a stranger by calling him Mr. Faymon? At the very least, you were engaged to him. There’s no need to become enemies after breaking up. is there?”

“It won’t be appropriate for me to call him Curtis.”

“You’re the only one who thinks that; Curtis won’t think it’s inappropriate,” Jeremy said and sighed. “Ms. Garland, you don’t understand Curtis. He says nothing, but everything he does is for you. You know th e kind of person he is. He really loves you and cares for you. That’s why he’s letting you do all these thi ngs. If he still has a place in your heart, you should know what to do.”

“I know. I know it all” Rayna’s throat lightened.

2

In truth, she regretted saying those harsh words to Curtis that day, and her heart ached for him. However, Jefferson’s physical state had taken a turn for the worse. Th

Suppressing her feelings, she then said to Jeremy, “I owe Jefferson too much, and I can’t repay him. Once he takes the medication and gets better, I’ll go back.”

Her response made Jeremy sigh in relief. “Good. We’ll be waiting for you to come back for a meal together”

“Mm–hmm.”

After ending the call, Rayna speedily noted down the address of Jeremy’s lab. Once she had eaten some of her breakfast, she hurriedly put on her coat and made to leave the hot

Right then, Jefferson emerged from his bedroom. At the sight of her hurried departure, he walked over to stop her and uttered in distress, “It’ll be subzero today. Don’t go out.”

“It’ll just be a while. I’ll be back soon.” Rayna was all smiles, planning to break the happy news to him after coming back from Jeremy’s lab. “I’ve made breakfast. After you’re done eating it, exercise a little in the hotel room. You can play billiards, too, if you want.”

Jefferson stopped her again and pulled off the scarf on the rack to wrap it around her bare neck. With a

Rayna smiled. “In that case, I’ll have to rush back.”

He wanted to see her off, but she waved her hand dismissively and said in slight disdain, “Go back. It’s n news. Bye!”

In no time, she disappeared behind the corner of the corridor.

It was only then Jefferson reluctantly retracted his gaze and returned to the open dining area. The sight of steaming oatmeal and b

In the twenty– odd years of his life, only when he was with her did he know the definition of happiness. The days of being in Frosa with her, her smile, and her care for him were something he would never forget.